Why Our Work Is Important

Welcome to the Lupus Inspiration Foundation for Excellence (L.I.F.E.). In 2001, L.I.F.E was co-founded by two female undergraduate students- Jodi Norton and Adina Gravit- who wanted to make a difference in the lives of those most commonly affected by lupus- college students! Each year the L.I.F.E. Scholarship Committee selects students to receive the merit-based L.I.F.E. Scholarship. Selected winners demonstrate both academic excellence and involvement in their community. They have chosen to continue their education despite the hardships brought on by systemic lupus erythematosus.

Life is full of challenges. Students battling lupus understand this with greater magnitude than most. Every day they strive to survive while their own bodies fight against them causing inflammation and injury to vital organs and tissues. Lupus may present itself as anything from a chronic fever, joint pain, profound fatigue or skin rashes to recurring meningitis and kidney failure. Lupus can affect vessels and is the leading cause of stroke in young women.

College degrees are more difficult for individuals with lupus to obtain—many students must delay school or reduce their course load. L.I.F.E. is the only non-profit to award scholarships to either full-time or part-time students. Today’s high tuition cost coupled with the increasing medical costs for chronic diseases places even more burden on college students with lupus.  

Perhaps more important than financial assistance, a L.I.F.E Scholarship is a statement of recognition- acknowledging those who have overcome great challenges, which, at times, seemed insurmountable. The support from donors makes a powerful statement that students with lupus can achieve their dreams and be successful.  L.I.F.E winners are willing to share their story in order to be inspirations and role-models to all those facing adversity.

As of 2015, L.I.F.E has provided merit-based scholarships to 110 deserving students attending colleges and universities in 35 states.

Furthermore, this website provides resources for college students with lupus and their families coping with the disease. We hope that you find this information useful and welcome any suggestions or inquiries via email at life4lupuscholarship@gmail.com.

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